For over a century, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has championed women’s advancement through education and equity. The AAUW International Fellowships program stands out as a prestigious opportunity for women from around the world to pursue graduate and postdoctoral studies in the United States. This comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide covers everything you need to know about the AAUW International Fellowships, including eligibility, benefits, application process, and tips for success.
Basic Information About AAUW International Fellowships
The AAUW International Fellowships are open to outstanding women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents and who wish to pursue full-time graduate or postdoctoral studies in the United States.The program supports women from all academic disciplines and empowers them to make a difference in their home countries after they complete their studies.
Application Deadline:
The application period for the 2026 cycle opens on August 1, 2025, and closes on September 30, 2025. Some sources note a deadline as late as November 15 for certain years, so always check the official AAUW website for the most current information.
University/Institution Details
AAUW offers International Fellowships for study at any accredited U.S. institution. This means you can apply to a wide range of universities and colleges across the United States, as long as a regional or national accrediting agency recognizes them. The fellowship does not restrict you to specific schools, allowing you the flexibility to choose a program that best aligns with your academic and career goals.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
The AAUW International Fellowships support women in all fields of study. You can apply whether you are interested in STEM, humanities, social sciences, business, law, or the arts. The fellowship is available for:
- Master’s or First Professional Degrees: Including J.D., M.F.A., L.L.M., M.Arch., M.D., D.D.S., and more.
- Doctoral Degrees: Ph.D., Ed.D., and other research doctorates.
- Postdoctoral Research: For women who have already earned a doctorate and wish to conduct advanced research.
Scholarship Benefits
The AAUW International Fellowships offer substantial financial support and additional benefits:
- Financial Stipend:
- Master’s/First Professional Degree: $20,000 for one year.
- Doctoral Degree: $25,000 for one year.
- Postdoctoral Research: $50,000 for one year.
- Educational Expenses: Funds can be used for tuition, books, and academic fees.
- Living Expenses: The stipend helps cover housing, food, and other personal costs.
- Dependent Child Care: Limited support is available for child care.
- You may use up to 10% of the fellowship for travel to conferences or seminars as part of your professional development.
- Global Network: Access to a supportive community of women scholars and professionals.
Benefits Not Included
While the fellowship generously supports your studies, it does not cover certain expenses and activities.
- You cannot use the funds to buy computers, lab equipment, or other supplies. The fellowship also does not cover institutional overhead or indirect costs.
- Research Assistants: You cannot use the fellowship to hire research assistants.
- You cannot use the stipend to pay off previous debts or expenses. The fellowship also does not cover printing or publishing costs.
- Tuition for Dependents: The fellowship does not cover educational expenses for your children or other dependents.
- Travel to or from Home Country: The stipend does not cover travel to or from your home country, except for approved research travel.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
To be eligible for the AAUW International Fellowships, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Gender: Open to women only.
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a country other than the United States or hold a non-immigrant visa if residing in the U.S.
- Academic Background: Must hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree by the application deadline.
- Study Plans: Must be accepted or have applied to an accredited U.S. institution for full-time graduate or postdoctoral study.
- Intent to Return: Must intend to return to your home country to pursue a professional career.
- English Proficiency: Must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted means.
- Full-Time Commitment: Must devote yourself full-time to the proposed academic plan during the fellowship year.
Required Documents for the Application
To apply for the AAUW International Fellowships, you will need:
- Completed Online Application: Available on the AAUW official website.
- Academic Transcripts: Official records from your previous institutions.
- Proof of Degree: Documentation showing you have completed the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically two or three from academic or professional references.
- Proof of English Proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, or other accepted test scores.
- Statement of Purpose: A clear and detailed study or research plan.
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume: Highlighting your academic and professional achievements.
- Proof of Admission or Application: Documentation showing you have applied to or been accepted by a U.S. institution.
Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Research and Prepare: Familiarize yourself with the AAUW International Fellowships program and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out the application form on the AAUW website during the open application period.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload or send all required documents, including your statement of purpose and proof of English proficiency.
- Review and Submit: Double-check your application for accuracy and completeness, then submit it before the deadline.
- Monitor Application Status: Keep an eye on your email for updates or requests for additional information.
- Await Notification: Fellowship decisions are typically announced in April of the following year.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your application well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Be Thorough: Make sure every section of your application is complete and accurate.
- Highlight Leadership and Community Involvement: Emphasize your commitment to advancing women and girls in your home country.
- Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose: Clearly articulate your academic goals, research interests, and how the fellowship will help you achieve them.
- Choose Strong Recommenders: Select references who know you well and can speak to your academic and professional potential.
- Proofread: Carefully review your application for errors before submitting.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
While the AAUW International Fellowships provide a generous stipend, it is important to budget carefully. Estimated monthly living expenses for international students in the United States include:
- Housing: $800–$1,500 (varies by city and type of accommodation)
- Food: $300–$500
- Health Insurance: $100–$200
- Books and Supplies: $100–$200
- Transportation: $50–$150
- Personal Expenses: $100–$300
Total Estimated Monthly Living Expenses: $1,350–$2,650
These estimates can vary depending on your location and lifestyle.
Why Choose the AAUW International Fellowships? (Minimum 5 Reasons)
- Generous Financial Support: The fellowship offers substantial stipends for master’s, doctoral, and postdoctoral studies.
- Flexibility in Study Areas: Open to women in all academic disciplines.
- Global Network: Access to a supportive community of women scholars and professionals.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for conference travel and professional growth.
- Commitment to Equity: The program is dedicated to advancing women’s education and leadership worldwide.
- Recognition and Prestige: AAUW is a well-respected organization with a long history of supporting women’s education.
- Career Advancement: The fellowship is designed to help women return to their home countries and make a positive impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for the AAUW International Fellowships?
A: Women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, hold a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree, and plan to pursue full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: For the 2026 cycle, the deadline is September 30, 2025 (application opens August 1, 2025). Always check the official website for updates.
Q: What documents are required?
A: You will need transcripts, proof of degree, letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency, a statement of purpose, and proof of admission or application to a U.S. institution.
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Q: Can I use the fellowship for undergraduate study?
A: No, the fellowship is only for graduate and postdoctoral study.
Q: Is the fellowship renewable?
A: AAUW typically awards the fellowship for one year, but it may renew some master’s and first professional degree fellowships for a second year.
Q: What expenses are not covered?
A: The fellowship does not cover equipment, overhead costs, research assistants, previous debts, publication costs, or tuition for dependents.
Q: How competitive is the fellowship?
A: The fellowship is highly competitive, with a large number of applicants from around the world.
Conclusion
The AAUW International Fellowships are a transformative opportunity for women seeking to advance their education and careers in the United States. With generous financial support, a global network, and a commitment to equity, this program empowers women to achieve their academic and professional goals. If you are eligible, start preparing your application today and take the first step toward a brighter future.